October Self-Care: Finding Your Writing Rhythm

What’s so spooky about October? The fact that I started writing this blog post and titled it September! Yes, I took a little break from blogging and started a couple of new writing projects. The spooky part is how my schedule got away from me. One more day became one more week, and then a month. That happens sometimes, and it’s okay. I gave myself grace as I adjusted to my new schedule and habits.

This reminds me of attending the St. Augustine Heritage Writing Festival and stopping at John Dufresne’s table while he was signing his book, Is Life Like This?. I mentioned that I got up every morning at 5:30 a.m. to write. I shared my schedule as proof that I was disciplined and a true writer. Instead of looking impressed, he handed me his signed book, looked at me, and said, “That will change.” I remember thinking, Wait, what? I can’t change my schedule. Wouldn’t that mean I had failed?

Looking back, I understand what he meant. Our lives are full of changes, and our writing habits need room to change with them.

Here are a few habits that help me make writing part of my life:

1. Giving myself time to adjust. Whether it’s overtime at work or events with family and friends, I acknowledge the change and give myself permission to find a new rhythm. It’s okay to pace myself.
2. Starting with just 15 minutes. I think of writing like working out. I tell myself to do just 15 minutes, and before I know it, 30 minutes have passed.
3. Setting aside writing blocks. On days filled with work, family, or friends, I enjoy the moment. Then I set aside another time or day during the week for a longer writing session.
4. Allowing time to recharge. Rest, reading, daydreaming, and football can recharge my creativity. They deserve space in my schedule, too.
5. Designating a space for writing. I have a space in my home that I think of as my “writing shed.” It has no windows, so I call it my writing cave.

“Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.” James Clear, Atomic Habits

Giving myself grace doesn’t mean giving up on writing. It means finding a rhythm I can return to.

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